Mommy Monday: Weaning my Baby/Toddler

I always knew I wanted to breastfeed my baby… I was worried that it was going to be too hard or I wouldn’t have enough milk, etc. For me, it ended up being easy and a very positive experience (of course the first few weeks were a bit overwhelming as we were both learning).

Now comes the hard part that I never thought much about… how to wean my 19 month old… She is nursing several times a day. She pulls at my shirt when she wants to nurse and cries/fusses when I say no. Most people ask why I have nursed so long ~ some think she is not ready to stop.

My decision boils down to the basic principle of motherhood. You do what you think is best for your family, your children, and yourself. I have heard tons of opinions from others, all of which I appreciate ~ but I am starting to research on my own. After searching many websites and blogs for weaning suggestions, I found this article to be the most helpful…

http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/4249/10-Tried-and-True-Tips-on-Weaning-Toddlers/#

I am hoping to use all these tips. I really liked tip #9 “Whenever possible, take your time” … I don’t want to feel rushed or rush her… My goal is two months not two days. I am going to follow the advice of tip #3 and attempt for now to cut back to morning and before bedtime feedings. I also think it will be key to follow the advice of tip #4 and give my daughter lots of non-nursing related comfort through this process. Send me all of your positive thoughts and I will give you an update next week.

My baby girl 19 months ago...